Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia, or rendering only a targeted part of the body anesthetized, has numerous benefits for both the surgeon and patient. Local anesthetic agents are essential to create and maintain regional blockades, and detailed knowledge of these agents is essential to providing safe and effective care. This chapter begins with review of the basic pharmacology, indications, and contraindications for the use of regional anesthesia. Numerous specific blockades used to anesthetize distinct regions of the body are reviewed with specific focus on anatomy and technique. When safely performed, regional anesthesia can provide an optimal experience for both surgeon and patient.